Comedy may be a winner again

Hong Kong actor/singer Aarif Lee, Amyra Dastur and Miya Muqi in Kung Fu Yoga. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Chan is well known for his he sui pian movies－a Hong Kong tradition－in which are films tailored to mark the Spring Festival, having released Rumble in Bronx on the Chinese mainland in 1995.

And, during the past years, Chan has frequently appeared in movies premiering on the first day of the Spring Festival on the mainland.

But his latest film may not get the kind of response he typically receives, as his action comedy Railroad Tigers was released on Dec 23, and audiences may not be inclined to line up again for a similar-looking production.

From the other expected releases, comedian Wang Baoqiang's directorial debut Buddies in India, a modern and twisted tale also based on Journey to the West, may grab eyeballs for a another reason.

Last August, Wang sparked a nationwide controversy after discovering his wife cheating on him. The woman, who was reported to be having an affair with Wang's agent, was widely criticised by Chinese netizens. So, some analysts feel that a sympathy wave may bring audiences in.

Meanwhile, though most reports indicate that Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons 2, Kung Fu Yoga and Buddies in India are likely to be the strongest contenders in the festival box-office stakes, there are two other comedies that could be potential challengers.